IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This information is intended for healthcare professionals. This medication is for hospital or clinical use only and must be administered by a qualified healthcare provider. It is not for self-administration. This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Aciclovir Viatris® (Acyclovir) for IV Infusion
Summary
Aciclovir Viatris is a sterile, intravenous (IV) antiviral medication from the global pharmaceutical company Viatris. It contains the active ingredient Acyclovir and is used in hospital settings to treat severe infections caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV). The intravenous route is necessary when rapid, high concentrations of the drug are required, when the infection is life-threatening, or when a patient is unable to take oral medication.
Manufacturer & Marketing Authorization Holder
- Marketing Authorization Holder: Viatris (a global healthcare company formed through the merger of Mylan and Upjohn).
- Manufacturer: Reig Jofre (a Spanish pharmaceutical company).
Category & Active Ingredient
- Category: Antiviral Agent (Synthetic Nucleoside Analogue).
- Active Ingredient: Acyclovir 250 mg (as Acyclovir Sodium).
Available Forms & Strengths of Aciclovir Viatris®
This product is supplied as a powder for solution for infusion in vials. It must be reconstituted and diluted by a healthcare professional prior to use.
- Aciclovir Viatris 250 mg Vial: For IV infusion.
- Aciclovir Viatris 500 mg Vial: For IV infusion.
Properties and Mechanism of Action (Acyclovir)
Acyclovir's effectiveness comes from its targeted action. As a synthetic nucleoside analogue, it remains inactive until it enters a cell infected with a herpes virus. Inside, a specific viral enzyme (thymidine kinase) converts it into its active form, acyclovir triphosphate. This active compound then interferes with the viral DNA polymerase, an enzyme crucial for the virus's replication. By blocking this enzyme and getting incorporated into the viral DNA, it halts the replication process, preventing the virus from multiplying.
Indications for Aciclovir Viatris® (IV Acyclovir)
This medication is used for the treatment of severe viral infections, including:
- Herpes Simplex Encephalitis (HSE).
- Severe initial or recurrent genital herpes, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
- Neonatal herpes simplex virus infections.
- Varicella-Zoster (chickenpox/shingles) infections in immunocompromised patients.
- Prophylaxis (prevention) of herpes infections in high-risk immunocompromised individuals (e.g., transplant recipients).
Dosage and Administration
This medication must be prepared and administered by a healthcare professional. Dosage is tailored to the specific infection, patient's age, weight, and most importantly, their renal function.
- Administration Method: It is given as a slow intravenous infusion over a period of at least 1 hour to minimize the risk of kidney damage.
- Reconstitution: The powder is first dissolved with a sterile liquid (e.g., Water for Injections) and then further diluted in a compatible infusion fluid before administration.
- Hydration: Ensuring the patient is well-hydrated is critical to reduce the risk of acyclovir crystals forming in the kidneys.
Side Effects
While effective, IV Acyclovir can have significant side effects.
- Common: Inflammation or phlebitis at the injection site, nausea, vomiting, and reversible increases in liver enzymes.
- Serious/Rare: Acute renal failure (the most significant risk), severe neurological disturbances (like confusion, agitation, or seizures, especially in the elderly or those with poor kidney function), and severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
Contraindications
Aciclovir Viatris is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Acyclovir or Valacyclovir.
Precautions & Warnings
- Renal Function: Acyclovir is cleared by the kidneys. The dose must be adjusted in patients with renal impairment.
- Neurological Effects: Patients should be monitored for neurological side effects, especially the elderly.
- Extravasation Risk: The solution is alkaline and can cause severe tissue damage if it leaks out of the vein. The infusion site must be monitored carefully.
To compare this product with other Acyclovir IV brands available in Egypt, please visit our comprehensive guide and comparison hub.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between Aciclovir Viatris and other brands?
The active ingredient, Acyclovir, is the same. The main difference is the manufacturer (Viatris/Reig Jofre). While clinically equivalent, hospital availability and contracts may differ.
Why is slow infusion over 1 hour so important?
Rapid infusion can cause high concentrations of acyclovir in the kidney tubules, leading to crystallization and potentially causing acute kidney injury. Slow infusion allows the drug to be cleared more safely.
Can this drug be refrigerated after reconstitution?
No. The product information for many IV acyclovir formulations warns against refrigeration as it may cause the drug to precipitate (form solid crystals), making it unsafe for use.
References
- Drugs.com: For professional monographs on Acyclovir injection. Acyclovir Injection Professional Information
- Electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC): For sample Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) for Acyclovir IV products. eMC Website
- Product Information: Key information is also sourced from the manufacturer, Viatris/Reig Jofre, regarding the Aciclovir Viatris® brand.
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